Tips for NHS Trusts Choosing an EPR and Integration Partner

Written by Integrella

Selecting the right consultancy partner is a critical decision for any NHS Trust. With the right partner, you can avoid any risks to patients and reputation, streamline operations, improve patient care, and ensure a smooth transition to digital systems. However, with numerous consultancies offering various services, how do you choose the correct one? Here are five top tips to guide NHS Trusts in making an informed decision when choosing an integration partner.

1. Look for Sector-Specific Experience

The NHS is a complex organisation with unique challenges and regulatory requirements. Therefore, it’s essential to partner with a firm that has proven experience in the healthcare sector, particularly within the NHS. A consultancy with a deep understanding of NHS processes, patient pathways, and compliance needs will be better equipped to deliver solutions that are not only effective but also tailored to your specific requirements.

Integrella has over 15 years of experience working with NHS Trusts. Trusts we have worked with include Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, Frimley Health NHS Trust, King’s College Hospital NHS Trust, Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust and many others.

You can see our case studies here.

2. Evaluate Their Technical Expertise

A successful EPR implementation and integration project hinges on technical expertise. Assess the consultancy’s capabilities in key areas such as data migration, system interoperability, and cybersecurity. Ensure they are proficient in working with the specific EPR systems you’re considering whether it’s Cerner, Epic, InterSystems or any other provider. Additionally, inquire about their experience in integrating these systems with other healthcare technologies, such as PACS, laboratory systems, and primary care platforms.

Integrella works with certified integration experts such as Intersystems and Rhapsody including EPIC Bridges consultants, Oracle Health systems and System C EPR.

3. Consider Their Approach to Change Management

Implementing a new EPR system is not just a technical challenge; it also involves significant organisational change. A competent consultancy will have a robust approach to change management, ensuring that staff across the Trust are adequately trained and supported throughout the transition. Look for consultancies that offer comprehensive change management services, including stakeholder engagement, training programmes, and post-implementation support. This will help to minimise disruption and ensure a smooth adoption of the new system.

4. Assess Their Track Record and Client References

One of the most reliable indicators of a consultancy’s capability is its track record. Request case studies or references from other NHS Trusts that have successfully worked with the consultancy on similar projects. Pay particular attention to projects that had complex integrations or challenging data migrations. Speaking directly with past clients can provide invaluable insights into the consultancy’s ability to deliver on time, within budget, and to the expected standard.

5. Prioritise Flexibility and Customisation

Every NHS Trust has unique needs and challenges, so a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works. Choose a consultancy that demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to customise their services to fit your specific situation. Whether it’s adapting their project management methodology to align with your internal processes or tailoring their integration strategy to meet specific technical requirements, the right consultancy will work collaboratively with you to ensure that the solutions they provide are truly fit for purpose.

Find Out More at HETT Show

Choosing the right EPR and integration consultancy is a crucial step in the digital transformation journey of any NHS Trust. By focusing on sector-specific experience, technical expertise, change management capabilities, a strong track record, and a flexible approach, you can select a partner that will help you successfully navigate the complexities of EPR implementation and integration. With the right consultancy by your side, your Trust can enhance patient care, improve operational efficiency, and achieve long-term digital success.

As the UK healthcare ecosystem continues to evolve, and Trusts grapple with new technologies and AI on the horizon, data integration will play an important part in delivering better, more efficient care to patients.

Integrella has been at the forefront of digital integration and EPR transitions in NHS Trusts for over 15 years, most recently being involved in the largest EPR transition programme in the UK. Integrella prides itself on being a company which is big enough to deliver solid results and is small enough to be agile and adapt to evolving customer needs.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to meet our team on stand B-59 at HETT Show on the 24-25th of September. Our team will be happy to discuss your EPR integration needs and can provide necessary recommendations in your EPR journey.

Go to our website to read more about us.